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Power of the Stars #2.5

A Princess of Oldir

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The Ojurn family has guided the planet of Oldir for centuries, and as the ancestors of a prophet, the world’s citizens have always honored their bloodline. However, the people’s struggles are on the rise, and their solar system’s limited resources continue to dwindle.

Rhanna, the daughter of the current Lord Supreme, considers it her duty to rid the planet of its troubles. She spends most of her days training to take up her family’s mantle. But when a popular young leader from a neighboring world arrives on their soil, it becomes evident that there are those with other wishes.

Set more than three decades before the events of The Forsaken Planet, this is a story of one family’s struggle to do what is right, even if it costs them their legacy.

A Princess of Oldir is both a standalone story in the Power of the Stars universe and a complementary addition for those familiar with the main books. You do not need to have read the other work to enjoy this novella.

90 pages, Kindle Edition

Published July 30, 2024

3 people are currently reading
100 people want to read

About the author

Bryan Wilson

5 books90 followers
Grab a FREE copy of "A Princess of Oldir," a prequel/standalone novella set in the award-winning Power of the Stars series, by signing up to Bryan's readers list at www.bryanwilsonauthor.com.

Bryan Wilson has had a winding road to publishing his debut series, POWER OF THE STARS. But as an avid reader and writer of sci-fi and fantasy since childhood, he hopes, like any good book, that journey has a satisfying ending. One with many more novels for readers to enjoy.

He lives in New England with his lovely wife, two daughters, and three cats. When he’s not jumping around trying to equally divide his attention to those six in the house, you can find him enjoying American football, hockey, or kicking his friend’s rears in the fantasy versions of both. He also loves a good movie, constantly struggling to decide whether his favorite is The Fellowship of the Ring or Interstellar. The indecision will probably travel with him to the grave.

If you’d like, please follow him on Instagram: @bryan.wilson.author for further updates on writing and life.

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Displaying 1 - 30 of 33 reviews
Profile Image for Andrew Watson.
Author 5 books632 followers
July 17, 2024
Fast paced political adventure with rich world building that demands to be explored. I can’t wait to dive into the full novels!
Profile Image for Athena (OneReadingNurse).
989 reviews143 followers
December 16, 2024
Read for SFINCs, will update full thoughts but it seems like a good introduction to the world, and readers are not toooo lost by all the factions and such. At this point I just read tie-in novellas without worrying too much about things we have no hope of understanding. I think a little more explanation of who is who would have been useful but there's enough scenery and action to keep it moving
Profile Image for kim  |  novelhaus.
387 reviews43 followers
June 15, 2024
4.5 stars, 8.43 on CAWPILE

This was my first foray into Bryan Wilson's writing and I have to say that I thoroughly enjoyed it. This novella was fast paced yet still managed to build a world that was intriguing and left me wanting to know more about not only this planet, but the universe as a whole. Each character was compelling and felt important to this little morsel of a tale and I actually cared about what happened to them (which we know is hard to do for me in a novella) and I wish I was still following them on their journey. It felt like a perfect introduction to Princess Rhanna and I literally need more of her NOW.

All in all, this novella made me excited to start the series in full and I can't wait to have them in my hands! If you are unsure about scifi or if you would be into this series, I recommend this novella as a little taste. Then you can want to devour the rest of it like I do!
Profile Image for Isabelle.
Author 1 book68 followers
November 28, 2024
I love trying novellas for new-to-me authors and read this one as soon as I found out I can use it as an entry point to the series. And what a great start it was for me! Despite its short length, I got a great insight into the society, politics, family dynamics, and environment for this world/system! It was so easy to get invested and now of course I want more! I read the whole thing in one day and am tempted to keep right going with the main series!
Profile Image for Glenna.
142 reviews
June 28, 2024
“A Princess of Oldir” opens up with heart stopping action and doesn’t let go. There is a lot going on in this novella; political intrigues and power dynamics, rich cultural and religious heritage, action sequences, family dynamics, mysterious bandits and monsters. It is my favorite summer read so far and I can’t wait to read the rest of the series!
Profile Image for Noah Hoeniges.
9 reviews12 followers
July 29, 2024
Just a great continuation of Bryan’s strengths in writing show off here. This book is action packed with a super compelling female main character that I can’t wait to see more of!
Profile Image for Graff Fuller.
2,101 reviews33 followers
May 12, 2025
Power of the Stars 02.5 A Princess of Oldir by Bryan Wilson

challenging dark emotional hopeful inspiring mysterious reflective sad tense

Fast-paced

4.25 Stars

Obviously a character-centric story, being a novella. I also feel that this is the best writing he's done...which bodes well for the future of this series.

The setting of this story...is one that we have just been introduced to, and I feel will catapult us forward in The Dark Element, book three in the series.

I have an eArc for that book, and will definitely be picking it up in the next day (or two). I have some commitments that I need to read for an upcoming event with Jade's Bedtime Book Club on Discord.

I actually wish I could pickup The Dark Element immediately, but it will allow me to let this story sit in my brain (and marinate), so when I do pick up the third book...it will allow me to hit the road...running.

I love this world, and the characters (both good, bad and indifferent). Each one moves the story...and it is a really good story (overall).

Onword. 
Profile Image for Annie Condon.
35 reviews5 followers
May 15, 2025
First, a huge thank you to the author for sending me a free ebook in exchange for an honest review.

This novella is PHENOMENAL. I read it in less than twenty minutes because it was too good to take it slow. The ending perfectly sets up what I predict will be a very important storyline in book 3 of the main series and I can’t wait to find out what happens!

Anyone looking for a quick, easy read that is also packed with developed characters and political intrigue should read A Princess of Oldir. Bryan Wilson never fails to deliver!
Profile Image for Ronit J..
Author 4 books28 followers
July 30, 2024
This review was originally posted on SFFINSIDERS.COM

I doubt I need to introduce the Power of the Stars. The Forsaken Planet has received quite a lot of acclaim, and reading this novella gave me just a small taster for why. I’ll admit, I haven’t read the main series yet, but the novella has convinced me that I must now break my already broken TBR and squeeze in more books. Thanks, Bryan.

What I liked:
I’ll start off by addressing something I appreciate as an author myself. This book is essentially book 2.5, but can be read by anyone not yet introduced to the main series. If this is my experience going in blind, I wonder what the experience must have been having read two full books set in this world. I have immense respect for authors who can create stand-alone stories that do not require a 10-book context in a world oversaturated with content, and Bryan Wilson is the newest addition to that list.

We start off with an action sequence, where we’re introduced to the protagonist—whose POV is what we follow throughout this novella. Rhanna is your typical SFF protagonist princess who has a lot of responsibilities and you just know—SPOILER IF YOU CAN’T GUESS IT—. The action/training sequence is a great introduction to the magic system and fluid combat of this world. That’s not all, Wilson manages to add even the local issues of Oldir into this training sequence without making it feel like info-dumping. And we’re just in the first chapter, mind you.

What follows is a relatively slow burn seen through Rhanna’s eyes as she watches her father deal with a potential coup/mutiny. As more and more of the world is revealed, you can’t help but feel the impending doom coming. I genuinely felt worried for Rhanna, and was convinced at some point that I was heading towards a GRRM-esque tragic end. The entire story lays the foundations for what Oldir is, its position in the larger world, and how the Ojurn family’s fall would impact the power dynamics of this word.

Lastly, the plot itself wasn’t all that unique or path-breaking. If you consume as much content as I do, you’ll probably predict the ending as well. However, Wilson’s commitment to telling this story does justice to the plot. Predicting the twists and the ending in no way takes away from its catharsis. In fact, I loved the ending and the tease it leaves you with. As someone who hasn’t yet read the main series, this book was like a trailer for an epic space opera that I look forward to reading soon.

What I didn’t like:
I love slow burns, but there were some world-building parts that were a little distracting. The first time I felt it was when Rhanna strolled through the market and visited Lep. I’ll admit that this part is essential to the story, but I personally didn’t like how it was handled. Where the opening chapter blended world-building and storytelling so effortlessly, that same balance felt missing here.

While I’ve illustrated just one example, I felt this way at least thrice throughout the novella. I wouldn’t have minded reading a few extra pages if that meant the pacing would be smoother. I wouldn’t have complained if I hadn’t gotten such a beautiful balance of world-building and storytelling in the first chapter. A few extra pages would have been a welcome addition instead of the pacing breaks I encountered in the novella at times.

Barring that, however, the book is a stellar—pun intended—read by itself, and most likely a more poignant addition to the Power of the Stars.

Conclusion:
A Princess of Oldir is a prime example of a minor episode of a larger world masquerading as a stand-alone story. Reading this one makes a strong argument for why you should let the Power of the Stars break your TBR.

TL;DR:
WHAT I LIKED: The protagonist, political intrigue, world-building and writing.
WHAT I DIDN’T LIKE: The way some world-building portions were handled, some pacing issues.
Profile Image for Ovium_Reads.
268 reviews25 followers
July 8, 2024
This was such a thrilling read. There is no time wasted in this novella at all. It's fast-paced and very easy to read, but it doesn't lack any world building at all. One of my favorite things immediately was the details Bryan's writing has in the scenery and overall scope of the setting. And for a short novella, there's tons to take in. Another thing that got me hooked was the power system and Solara. With some political intrigue, betrayal, and some action in the mix, this was a fun time. It definitely did what it was intended for a new reader to the series. It got me more interested than I already was to jump into the series. Can't wait to check out The Forsaken Planet!
Profile Image for R.B. Leyland.
Author 1 book7 followers
July 8, 2024
Once again, Bryan does not disappoint! His ability to throw you into a world and keep you immersed is unmatched, and it was a great read to scratch the itch that's been there since reading his other work.
A perfect mix of fantasy and Sci fi, it's a great introduction to the amazing world he has built, or an exciting insight into characters for people who have read The Power of the Stars.
5/5 - would recommend!
Profile Image for Audrie Reads.
33 reviews4 followers
August 1, 2024
Great introduction or supplement to the series!

What I liked:

* Strong female main character.
* Action scenes were clearly articulated and easy to follow.
* Interesting magic system.
* Good political drama and plotting!

What I didn’t like:

* I’m not sure if it’s for me, as it is very action forward.
Profile Image for Discovery One.
127 reviews
July 22, 2024
The Ojurn family has ruled Oldir for centuries, revered as descendants of a prophetic lineage. As their planet faces increasing hardships and dwindling resources, Rhanna, daughter of the current Lord Supreme, trains relentlessly to uphold her family's honor. When a charismatic leader from a neighboring world appears, conflicting ambitions threaten to shatter their legacy.

Set decades before "The Forsaken Planet," this is a story of the Ojurns' struggle to navigate duty, legacy, and sacrifice in a time of escalating crisis.
Profile Image for Amber Toro.
Author 8 books110 followers
January 1, 2025
Great atmospheric scifi novel with Dune vibes, a strong princess, and a world on the verge of chaos. This novella left me begging for the next book in the Power of the Stars series.
Profile Image for Manda Simas.
115 reviews9 followers
June 14, 2024
This novella is a great addition to Power of the Stars and offers a new perspective for us readers that have followed the series since the beginning as well as a good intro to Wilson's writing for new readers. I thoroughly enjoyed it, and you will too.

Full review will drop first on www.sffinsiders.com ✌️
Profile Image for Joey, The Dragon Reread.
89 reviews44 followers
July 30, 2024
This review was originally posted on SFF Insiders

As a preface, I read this book as someone who has read and loved both The Forsaken Planet and The Son of the Prophets. I’ve been a huge fan of Bryan since he started writing this series and this story only increased my excitement for the saga. A Princess of Oldir is a standalone story that can serve as an introduction to Wilson’s series or as an extra treat for established fans. For me, this novella adds rich depth and worldbuilding to the solid framework that the Power of the Stars saga rests upon. Since many people who will want to read this are going to be new initiates to Wilson, I will keep this spoiler free.

A Princess of Oldir takes place on the planet of Oldir, which is one of a handful of planets where humans reside and have access to Solara, the literal power of the stars, which allow humans to perform incredible feats. We follow Rhanna, the daughter of the Lord Supreme of Oldir, as she has her first true interactions with the leader from their neighboring planet. This is an action-packed novella that within its few pages pumps you up while simultaneously ripping out your heart as Wilson reminds us that he doesn’t allow character armor to influence his stories.

It had been a little while since I read The Son of the Prophets, but this novella reminded me how much I love this series and made me so excited for the third book to come out. There are easter eggs and hints dropped in this book that made my jaw drop and are almost certainly going to be essential for the series moving forward.

Your heart is going to be pounding, your blood boiling, your jaw dropping, and your eyes misting. Whether A Princess of Oldir is your initiation to the Power of the Stars saga or you’re an experienced Solara wielder, this is a must-read for sci-fantasy fans.
Profile Image for Sarah.
1,869 reviews52 followers
July 30, 2024
TL;DR: What a great introduction to someone's work! With some clear influences of Dune, but with a spattering more magic and a lot of familiar political clashing this definitely has me even more interested in Bryan Wilson's work.

While this is marked as a 2.5 in a series, the author himself has stated this can be read as an introduction to his works and this series so I pounced. I love a good introduction novella.
This short work was tense, which full transparency I'm not always a fan of in a book. You can feel the looming conflict coming, but the setting he draws along the way was rich and I loved it. It was giving a lot of Dune vibes, but with it's own unique feeling that left me excited.
Rhanna, our Princess, is smart and I appreciated the strong characterization she had even in such a short work.
As a new reader to Bryan Wilson's work I'm thrilled to see what else he's got, because he impressed me with this one. It's a fantastic little novella, and I highly recommend it.
Author 8 books
July 30, 2024
Never read the main series. (Not sure if this hurt or helped my enjoyment.) This story clearly is an introduction to the main books. I believe it was decent at serving that purpose but it might be better to read the main books first. The story is well-written for the most part. The sci-fi world is well-constructed. The ending is good. However, the plot is a bit slim. By the time the story gets going, the novella ends which makes me feel like I still don't know the characters at all. The main character feels like she didn’t have much of an arc. I'm slightly intrigued to read more but lack the investment needed to want more.
Profile Image for MikeLikesBooks.
783 reviews85 followers
July 30, 2024
All y’all need to read this novella. The author has created an intriguing world with sister planets, competing leaders, monsters, and a princess that you definitely are going to root for. There is a lot of political intrigue, betrayal, and action scenes to keep you on the edge of your seat. I loved it so much I’m getting the other books in the series.

I want to thank the author for a copy of his e-book. He blends science fiction and fantasy together very well. I’m leaving this review voluntarily.
4 reviews
April 1, 2025
This novella is a must read for fans of the Power of the stars series. It provides the back story and introduces characters who play an important part in The Dark Element. While it can be enjoyed as a stand alone novel, it definitely enhances book 3.
Profile Image for Tim.
34 reviews
August 11, 2024
I've had The Forsaken Planet on my TBR a while now and decided to start with this to see if the series was for me. It was fast paced, with good world building and likeable characters. Pretty short being a novella but a fun read nonetheless and left me itching for more. I jumped straight into The Forsaken Planet (book 1 in the power of the stars series) and am currently enjoying that just as much.
Profile Image for Michelle Hill.
23 reviews
March 22, 2025
An excellent novella! I loved the first two books in the Power of the Stars series and this story further expands the universe that Bryan has created. I was fully invested in the characters from the beginning and it adds a new perspective to the culture and political intrigue of the first two books. An excellent introduction to the Power of the Stars if you’re not already a fan (if not, why not?!). Very excited about The Dark Element!
Profile Image for R.J..
228 reviews13 followers
June 14, 2024
The Princess of Oldir by Bryan Wilson is hands down one of my favorite novellas! This story expands the Power of the Stars world from a different perspective. Rhanna lives on the planet of Ojurn - steeped in culture and political dynamics.

This was a wonderfully fast-paced story that had Bryan Wilson signature awesome action sequences. I loved how this story gave a deeper view on how this universe reached the situation seen in the books. While the novella takes place as a prequel and can be read first, I liked reading it after the second book 😁 I loved Rhanna and her character development and there are some fantastic side characters!

If you want a taste of the world or can't get enough of the universe Bryan has crafted, this novella is for you! 5/5 you should pick this up as soon as it's released!
Profile Image for Curtis.
45 reviews1 follower
December 17, 2025
I thought it was a quick enjoyable read to get some more information about the world. We haven't seen yet. It does say it can be red without having Read anything else but I feel like you would really be missing out and would probably braid it lower if you did not read book one and two, but having read book one and two I thought it was done.
Profile Image for Kate.
34 reviews
October 29, 2025
This novella was so much fun, action packed, some awesome new characters that I am so excited to see pop up in the next book. Really left me wanting more.
Profile Image for Noah Isaacs.
Author 4 books21 followers
July 5, 2024
I went in blind to this novella, not knowing much about the universe Bryan had created to this point. As a fan of space opera style books, I enjoyed the conflict between the planets in the star system, and the references to Prophets was intriguing as well.

The combat itself was fun to read, especially with the Solara, and I'm interested in learning what it can do in Bryan's other books.

I will say that the results of the negotiations were not particularly surprising, but in a short novella, there was just the right amount of buildup, climax, and ending that it didn't take away from the story.
Profile Image for Nicholas Fuller.
Author 2 books11 followers
June 25, 2024
This little novella packs a punch!
From the opening action, to the palace intrigue, this story had so much badassery! The main character is a young warrior princess determined to help her people. But will she be able to?
Wilson excelled at his action sequences throughout the story, but the real bombs were dropped with the palace intrique. Once a particular character entered the story, I could not stop turning the pages! I had to know how things were going to turn out!
If you enjoy the magic of the Jedi from Star Wars with the conniving of Game of Thrones, you've found your next read!
230 reviews7 followers
July 30, 2024
An amuse-bouche out of this world. I want more, and you may quote me on that.😉

It is a shorter story this time, taking us back more than three decades before the events of 'The forsaken planet'.

The book sets off with a bang, a fearsome creature fighting like no other, well, at least like no other princess, I imagine😉 A princess that is trained to be a strong, independent woman that also has magic?

You can count me in. We start in Olara… a delegation of sorts is arriving from another world, and that is when it all gets exciting as their real agenda is slightly different than portrayed. Our leading lady, Rhanna, is in for a fight.

“The deserts of Oldir were no place to stay exposed for too long. “

Since I enjoyed the book, I will be checking out the rest of this authors work.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 33 reviews

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